Shrubby stylo (Stylosanthes scabra, Linnaea 12: 69 (1838))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Vogel

Bibliography: Linnaea 12: 69 (1838)

Year: 1838

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Stylosanthes

Vegetable: False

Observations: S. Trop. America

Description

Shrubby stylo, known scientifically as Stylosanthes scabra, is an enduring, perennial legume belonging to the family Fabaceae. Initially referenced by the botanist Vogel in his 1838 publication in Linnaea (vol. 12, p. 69), this plant has garnered attention for its robust growth and adaptability to a variety of tropical climates. Originating predominantly from South Tropical America, Shrubby stylo has been widely recognized for its potential in agricultural and ecological applications.

Characterized by its shrubby growth habit, Stylosanthes scabra is well-suited to tropical environments, where it thrives under conditions that may prove challenging for less resilient species. Its ability to establish and persist in nutrient-poor soils makes it a valuable asset in sustainable agriculture, particularly in regions where soil fertility is a limiting factor.

The plant exhibits a deep taproot system, which not only supports its drought resistance but also contributes to soil stabilization and improvement. The symbiotic relationship Stylosanthes scabra forms with nitrogen-fixing bacteria allows it to enrich the soil with nitrogen, thereby enhancing the productivity of subsequent plantings and contributing to overall soil health.

In addition to its ecological benefits, Shrubby stylo is highly esteemed as a forage crop. It provides a rich source of protein for grazing livestock, contributing to improved animal health and productivity. Its resilient nature ensures a steady supply of forage even in less-than-ideal growing conditions, making it a dependable resource for farmers in tropical regions.

The plant’s growth form is typically erect and can reach up to 1.5 meters in height. Its foliage comprises trifoliate leaves with narrow, elongated leaflets that are hairy and rough to the touch. During its blooming period, Shrubby stylo produces small, yellow flowers that give rise to pods containing one or two seeds each.

Given its myriad of benefits and adaptability, Stylosanthes scabra continues to be a significant species in both natural and managed ecosystems across the tropics. Its role in improving soil health, providing reliable forage, and its resilience to harsh growing conditions highlight its importance as a versatile and valuable plant within the Fabaceae family.

Common Names

Eng: pencilflower, shrubby stylo
En: Shrubby stylo, Pencilflower

Synonyms

• Stylosanthes gloiodes (S.F.Blake)
• Stylosanthes diarthra (S.F.Blake)
• Stylosanthes plicata (S.F.Blake)
• Stylosanthes subsericea (S.F.Blake)
• Stylosanthes scoparia (Standl. & L.O.Williams)

Distribution

• Argentina Northeast (native)
• Argentina Northwest (native)
• Bolivia (native)
• Brazil North (native)
• Brazil Northeast (native)
• Brazil South (native)
• Brazil Southeast (native)
• Brazil West-Central (native)
• Colombia (native)
• Ecuador (native)
• Paraguay (native)
• Peru (native)
• Venezuela (native)
• Hawaii (introduced)
• Marquesas (introduced)
• Northern Territory (introduced)
• Queensland (introduced)
• Western Australia (introduced)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Leaf

Taken Jun 6, 2013 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 17, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Flower

Taken Nov 17, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 17, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 17, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 17, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 17, 2022 by Magnun Paula Pereira (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Nov 17, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Other

Taken Nov 17, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Habit

Taken Oct 3, 2015 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 23, 2015 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 23, 2015 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 23, 2015 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 6, 2013 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2975725)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:304693-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Stylosanthes scabra Vogel)

Specifications

Growth